On the first day of training camp, Alex Ovechkinsaid two important things. First, the Russian machine explained how offseason turnover was not going to sink the Caps’ battleship saying, “We’re not going to be suck this year.” Later he explained his long-term focus on winning a Stanley Cup by saying “goals is not my goal right now.” But throughout that day and the entirety of training camp, Ovechkin’s weight was a story. Ovechkin arrived early to Arlington, Virginia, looking slim. His official weight was only four pounds less than last year though.

Thursday morning, before the Capitals’ season opener, Ovechkin was asked about his weight again. And I’d like you to watch his face as he fields the question. He is legitimately confused as to why this is a story.

“We’ve read that you lost so much weight, somewhere as much as 20 pounds and I looked it was four pounds compared to last year to this year,” the reporter said. “Did you have some (special) training program that helped you?”

Ovechkin smiled and let out a chuckle. This was his response.

“No,” Ovechkin said. “I’ve been doing the same thing. Just to you guys.”